Hastings Hours

c.1475 - 1483

Intro

Written in Latin on vellum – a kind of fine calfskin parchment – this manuscript was made between 1475 and 1483, probably at Ghent or Bruges. Books of Hours were popular medieval books that combined writings, prayers and often beautiful illustrations. This book belonged to William, Lord Hastings, who was a staunch protector of Prince Edward and his brother – the young ‘princes in the Tower’ – and as such stood between Richard, Duke of Gloucester, and his kingly ambitions. Gloucester had Hastings executed in June 1483, a month before he claimed the throne as Richard III. In one instance, the Hastings arms overlap earlier painted decoration, raising the suggestion that Lord Hastings may not have been the manuscript’s original owner.